Flashcards 11/18-12/6
(150 cards)
1
Q
What is “political efficacy”?
A
The belief that one’s political participation can make a difference.
2
Q
Explain the concept of gerrymandering.
A
The intentional manipulation of district boundaries to benefit a specific political party or group.
3
Q
Compare the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan.
A
The Virginia Plan favored large states with representation based on population, while the New Jersey Plan favored small states with equal representation.
4
Q
What is the significance of the Declaration of Independence?
A
It proclaimed the thirteen colonies’ separation from Britain and outlined the principles of individual rights and government by consent.
5
Q
What was the outcome of “Citizens United v. FEC (2010)”?
A
The Supreme Court ruled that corporate funding of independent political broadcasts can’t be limited under the First Amendment.
6
Q
What are “checks and balances”?
A
A system where each branch of government can limit the powers of the other branches to prevent any one from becoming too powerful.
7
Q
Define “winner-take-all system” in the Electoral College.
A
A system where the candidate who receives the most votes in a state secures all of that state’s electoral votes.
8
Q
What impact did the Voting Rights Act of 1965 have on elections?
A
It outlawed discriminatory practices, such as literacy tests, that suppressed minority voting.
9
Q
What is “non-response bias”?
A
Bias in survey results caused by differences between those who respond and those who do not.
10
Q
How does the proportional system allocate seats in elections?
A
Seats are distributed based on the percentage of votes each party receives.
11
Q
How does campaign finance affect voter trust in elections?
A
Excessive spending and undisclosed funding sources can undermine confidence in electoral integrity.
12
Q
What is “random-digit dialing”?
A
A method of selecting telephone numbers at random for polling to create a representative sample.
13
Q
What is the main idea of Thomas Hobbes’ “The Leviathan”?
A
Hobbes argued that in a state of nature, life would be “solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short,” necessitating a strong central authority to avoid chaos and anarchy.
14
Q
Explain the significance of “United States v. Lopez” in terms of federalism.
A
It marked a limit on Congress’s power under the commerce clause, reinforcing state sovereignty.
15
Q
What is the “National Voter Registration Act (1993)” also known as?
A
The “Motor Voter Law,” which allows voter registration when applying for or renewing a driver’s license.
16
Q
What is “popular sovereignty”?
A
Popular sovereignty is the principle that the authority of a government is created and sustained by the consent of its people, through their elected representatives.
17
Q
Why are swing states critical in presidential elections?
A
Their outcomes are unpredictable and can determine the allocation of electoral votes.
18
Q
Define “republicanism.”
A
Republicanism is a political ideology centered on citizenship in a state organized as a republic, where the people hold popular sovereignty.
19
Q
Who are the “Baby Boomers”?
A
Individuals born between 1946 and 1964, often characterized by their substantial impact on culture and politics.
20
Q
How did the Federal Election Campaign Act (1971) address campaign finance?
A
It established rules for disclosure and contribution limits to increase transparency.
21
Q
What is the “rule of law”?
A
The concept that all individuals and institutions are accountable to the same laws that are fairly applied and enforced.
22
Q
What is the “necessary and proper clause”?
A
A clause in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution granting Congress the power to pass all laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers.
23
Q
What is the “full faith and credit clause”?
A
It requires states to recognize the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of other states.
24
Q
What does the Fifteenth Amendment (1870) guarantee?
A
It prohibits the federal and state governments from denying a citizen the right to vote based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude.
25
How do proportional systems differ from winner-take-all systems?
Proportional systems allocate representation based on vote percentages, while winner-take-all awards all to the majority.
26
Who were the Anti-Federalists and what were their main concerns?
Anti-Federalists opposed the Constitution's ratification, fearing a strong central government would threaten individual liberties without a Bill of Rights.
27
Describe "interest groups."
Organizations that try to influence public policy in favor of their specific interests.
28
What was the central issue in Shaw v. Reno (1993)?
Whether race-based districting violated the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.
29
What did the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA) of 2002 aim to address?
It sought to limit the influence of money in politics by restricting campaign contributions and electioneering communications.
30
How do conservatives view the role of government?
They advocate for limited government intervention in the economy and emphasize traditional social values.
31
Explain "pluralism" in politics.
A theory that multiple groups compete and counterbalance one another in the political marketplace.
32
Define "political action committee (PAC)."
An organization that raises money privately to influence elections or legislation, especially at the federal level.
33
How do different states approach early voting?
States set their own rules for early voting, creating variations in access and participation opportunities.
34
Define the role of the "Federal Reserve Board."
The governing body that oversees U.S. monetary policy and regulates banks.
35
What are dark ads, and why are they controversial?
Targeted political ads with undisclosed sponsors, raising concerns about accountability and transparency.
36
What is the "coattail effect"?
When a popular candidate at the top of the ticket attracts votes for other candidates of the same party.
37
How does gerrymandering impact electoral competition?
It can create districts that favor one party, reducing competitiveness and voter choice.
38
Why is voter turnout typically lower in midterm elections compared to presidential elections?
Midterms receive less media attention and lack the high-profile appeal of presidential races.
39
Define "majoritarian" politics.
Policies where a majority of the population benefits and a majority pays, reflecting the will of most people.
40
Define "concurrent powers."
Powers shared by both the federal and state governments, such as taxing and building roads.
41
What is "political culture"?
The shared set of beliefs, values, and norms about how citizens relate to government and to one another.
42
Why do states with smaller populations gain disproportionate power in the Senate?
Each state, regardless of population, has two senators, amplifying the influence of smaller states.
43
How do majority-minority districts promote representation?
By concentrating minority voters to increase their chances of electing representatives from their communities.
44
How did the Supreme Court's ruling in Citizens United v. FEC (2010) affect campaign finance?
It allowed unlimited independent expenditures by corporations and unions as a form of protected free speech.
45
What was the main weakness of the Articles of Confederation?
The national government lacked the power to tax and regulate commerce, making it ineffective at governing.
46
What are connected PACs, and how do they operate?
Political Action Committees tied to specific organizations that raise funds for campaigns aligned with their interests.
47
Describe "limited government."
A governing body whose powers are restricted through laws or a constitution to protect individual freedoms.
48
Define "voter registration."
The process by which eligible citizens sign up to be able to vote in elections.
49
What does "implied powers" allow Congress to do?
To pass laws necessary to carry out its enumerated powers, even if not explicitly listed in the Constitution.
50
What is the "extradition clause"?
It requires states to return individuals charged with crimes to the state where the crime was committed.
51
What is "voter turnout"?
The percentage of eligible voters who actually cast a ballot in an election.
52
What is the "Great Recession" (2007–2012)?
A severe global economic downturn that influenced political attitudes toward regulation and government intervention.
53
Explain Jean-Jacques Rousseau's idea of the "social contract."
Rousseau believed that individuals consent to form a government that will protect the common good, sacrificing some personal freedoms for state protection.
54
Explain "preclearance" as established by the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
It required certain states with histories of discrimination to obtain federal approval before changing voting laws.
55
What are "generational effects" in politics?
The impact of historical events experienced by a generation that shape their political beliefs and attitudes.
56
How does federalism create diversity in U.S. election processes?
States set their own election rules, leading to variations in voting systems and procedures.
57
How do House elections differ from Senate elections?
House elections are based on districts within states, while Senate elections represent entire states.
58
What is the significance of midterm elections in the U.S.?
They occur halfway through a president's term and determine control of Congress and many state governments.
59
How does name recognition benefit incumbents?
It helps them gain voter trust and media coverage, giving them an edge over challengers.
60
How does split-ticket voting influence election outcomes?
It allows voters to choose candidates from different parties, promoting diverse representation.
61
What was the "New Deal Coalition"?
An alliance of diverse groups supporting FDR's New Deal, reshaping American politics toward Democratic dominance.
62
Describe "progressive" ideology.
Advocates for social reform, government action to address inequalities, and progressive taxation.
63
What are "entrance polls"?
Surveys taken before voters cast their ballots to predict outcomes and understand voter motivations.
64
Describe "lobbying."
The act of attempting to influence decisions made by officials in the government.
65
Explain the purpose of the Electoral College.
To formally select the president and vice president, balancing power between populous and less populous states.
66
How do campaign strategies differ in swing states compared to safe states?
Campaigns invest more heavily in swing states, targeting undecided voters and tailoring messages to local concerns.
67
Describe the political tendencies of "Generation X."
Born between 1965 and 1980, they are generally independent-minded and value work-life balance.
68
Explain the "gender gap" in voting.
The difference in political views and voting behaviors between men and women.
69
What does the Tenth Amendment state?
Powers not delegated to the federal government nor prohibited to the states are reserved to the states or the people.
70
Define "trade balance."
The difference between the value of a country's exports and imports.
71
What is the main responsibility of the "Judicial Branch"?
To interpret laws and ensure they align with the Constitution.
72
What is a "populist" in political terms?
Someone who supports the rights and power of the people in their struggle against the privileged elite.
73
What is a "representative democracy"?
A system of government where citizens elect representatives to make decisions and pass laws on their behalf.
74
What is the purpose of closed primaries, and how do they function?
They restrict voting to registered party members to ensure party control over nominations.
75
What is Baron de Montesquieu known for advocating in "The Spirit of the Laws"?
Montesquieu advocated for the separation of powers into distinct branches to prevent any one group from gaining too much control.
76
What is "hyperpluralism"?
A theory that too many strong influential groups cripple the government's ability to make coherent policy.
77
What is "monetary policy"?
Central bank actions regulating the money supply and interest rates to control inflation and stabilize currency.
78
What is the liberal perspective on government's role?
Liberals support a more active government in addressing social inequalities and regulating the economy.
79
What is the coattail effect in congressional elections?
When a popular candidate at the top of the ticket helps candidates of the same party win lower-level elections.
80
Explain "weighting" or "stratification" in polling.
Adjusting survey results to account for demographic imbalances in the sample.
81
Explain the concept of "pluralist democracy."
Pluralist democracy recognizes group-based activism by nongovernmental interests striving to impact political decision-making.
82
Define dark money and its impact on elections.
Political spending by organizations that do not disclose their donors, raising concerns about transparency and influence.
83
Compare the plurality and majority voting systems.
Plurality requires the most votes to win, while majority requires over 50%, potentially leading to runoffs.
84
Describe an "absentee ballot."
A ballot submitted by a voter who cannot be present at the polls on Election Day.
85
What is "globalization" in economic terms?
The integration of markets, politics, values, and environmental concerns across borders.
86
Describe "Medicare."
A federal program providing health insurance to people 65 and older and some younger with disabilities.
87
Who were the Federalists and what did they support?
Federalists supported the ratification of the U.S. Constitution and a stronger national government.
88
Differentiate between "participatory democracy" and "elite democracy."
Participatory democracy emphasizes broad participation in politics by citizens, while elite democracy suggests that a select group of knowledgeable or privileged individuals make decisions.
89
How do caucuses differ from primary elections in the presidential nomination process?
Caucuses involve party members meeting to discuss and vote for candidates, while primaries are direct voting events.
90
How does the media influence voter perceptions during campaigns?
By shaping narratives, emphasizing certain issues, and providing candidate coverage.
91
How does the U.S. Constitution reflect the principle of separation of powers?
It divides governmental powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches to prevent concentration of power.
92
What role do Super PACs play in modern elections?
They can raise and spend unlimited funds on independent political activities but cannot coordinate with campaigns.
93
What are enumerated powers?
Powers expressly granted to Congress in the Constitution.
94
Why did the Supreme Court rule in favor of Citizens United in 2010?
It determined that political spending by corporations is a form of protected speech.
95
What is the "North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)"?
A 1994 agreement eliminating trade barriers between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
96
What is a war chest, and how does it influence campaigns?
The funds a candidate has for their campaign, which can deter challengers and improve outreach.
97
Why is the majority voting system less common in U.S. elections?
It requires runoffs, which can increase costs and lengthen the election process.
98
What is the significance of "Federalist No. 51"?
It discusses the need for checks and balances and separation of powers in government.
99
What is "fiscal federalism"?
The financial relations between units of governments in a federal system, often involving the allocation of funds.
100
How does the invisible primary phenomenon shape elections?
It involves candidates building support and fundraising before the official primary season begins.
101
What is the role of "stakeholders" in policymaking?
Individuals or groups with an interest or concern in a policy issue who may be affected by policy decisions.
102
What is the role of campaign consultants in elections?
They develop strategies, manage messaging, and guide candidates in achieving their goals.
103
Explain the significance of Super Tuesday in presidential primaries.
It is a day when multiple states hold primaries, often determining the frontrunners in the nomination process.
104
Describe "New Deal Coalition" impact.
Unified diverse groups under the Democratic Party, reshaping political alignments in the U.S.
105
What role does the judiciary play in state election rules?
Courts can review state election laws and district boundaries to ensure compliance with the Constitution.
106
Describe "prospective voting."
Voting based on predictions of how a candidate will perform in the future.
107
Define "valence issues."
Issues on which most voters and candidates agree, such as prosperity or security.
108
What is "push polling"?
A technique where questions are designed to influence rather than measure public opinion.
109
What was the Three-Fifths Compromise?
A compromise where each enslaved person would be counted as three-fifths of a person for purposes of taxation and representation.
110
Describe "interest groups."
Organizations that seek to influence public policy in favor of their specific interest.
111
Describe the Great Compromise.
An agreement during the Constitutional Convention that established a bicameral legislature with proportional representation in the House and equal representation in the Senate.
112
Explain the "Help America Vote Act (2002)."
Legislation aimed at reforming voting systems and voter access following the 2000 election issues.
113
How did the "Great Depression" influence political ideology?
It increased support for government intervention to provide economic security and social welfare programs.
114
Define "political ideology."
A coherent set of beliefs about politics, public policy, and the role of government.
115
What was the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) of 1996?
A federal law that defined marriage as the union between one man and one woman for federal purposes.
116
What are "iron triangles"?
Mutually beneficial relationships between interest groups, government agencies, and congressional committees.
117
Describe the "grandfather clause" in voting laws.
It allowed only those whose grandfathers had voted before Reconstruction to vote, effectively disenfranchising African Americans.
118
How does the winner-take-all system affect presidential election outcomes?
The candidate who wins the popular vote in a state typically receives all of its electoral votes, concentrating focus on swing states.
119
Why has the Supreme Court upheld the use of race in redistricting under strict scrutiny?
To ensure racial considerations do not violate equal protection principles.
120
Define "Baby Boomers" in political context.
A generation influential in shaping policy debates on Social Security, healthcare, and retirement.
121
What is the incumbency advantage in congressional elections?
The institutional and financial benefits enjoyed by current officeholders that increase their chances of reelection.
122
Describe "fiscal policy."
Government decisions on taxation and spending to influence the economy.
123
Describe the main concern of the Anti-Federalists regarding the Constitution.
They feared a strong central government would overpower states' rights and individual freedoms without a Bill of Rights.
124
Explain "Super PACs."
Independent expenditure-only committees that may raise unlimited sums of money but cannot contribute directly to candidates.
125
What challenges arise from the winner-take-all system in presidential elections?
It can marginalize third-party candidates and lead to outcomes that do not reflect the national popular vote.
126
Define "federalism."
A system of government where power is divided between a national (federal) government and various regional governments (states).
127
How does redistricting affect the representation of constituents in congressional elections?
It redraws district boundaries, potentially altering which voters are represented by each member of the House.
128
What is the purpose of the Electoral College in U.S. presidential elections?
To formally select the president and vice president through electors chosen by the states.
129
Explain the term "electorate."
All the people in a country or area who are entitled to vote in an election.
130
What role did media play in the rise of televised debates in presidential campaigns?
It highlighted candidates' communication skills and shaped public perceptions.
131
Explain the role of apportionment in House elections.
It determines the number of representatives each state receives based on population.
132
How do blanket primaries differ from open primaries?
Blanket primaries allow voters to select candidates from any party, while open primaries allow participation regardless of party affiliation.
133
Define the concept of "natural rights" as proposed by Enlightenment philosophers.
Natural rights are fundamental rights inherent to all humans, not dependent on governments, including life, liberty, and property.
134
What is the significance of the Nineteenth Amendment (1920)?
It grants women the right to vote, prohibiting any U.S. citizen from being denied the right to vote based on sex.
135
What is "political efficacy"?
The belief that one's actions can affect government and that one can understand and influence political affairs.
136
What factors contribute to lower youth turnout in midterm elections?
Less media coverage, fewer high-profile races, and lower engagement with congressional issues.
137
What does "equality of opportunity" mean?
The principle that all people should have the same chance to succeed, without unfair barriers or discrimination.
138
Define "linkage institutions."
Structures that connect citizens to the government, including elections, political parties, interest groups, and the media.
139
Define "implied powers."
Powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but necessary to implement the enumerated powers, derived from the necessary and proper clause.
140
What is the significance of the "one person, one vote" principle?
It ensures equal representation by requiring districts to have roughly equal populations.
141
Explain the significance of the Controlled Substances Act (1970) in federalism.
It illustrates federal authority to regulate drugs, even in states that have legalized certain substances, leading to conflicts over states' rights.
142
Describe the process of "ratification" of the Constitution.
Approval by at least nine of the thirteen states through conventions specifically held for that purpose.
143
Define "flat tax."
A tax system with a constant tax rate regardless of income level.
144
What is front-loading, and why do states engage in it?
Scheduling primaries earlier in the election season to increase their influence on the nomination process.
145
What is the "Electoral College"?
A body of electors established by the Constitution to elect the president and vice president.
146
What is the supremacy clause?
It establishes that the Constitution and federal laws take precedence over state laws.
147
What is "agenda" setting in policymaking?
The process of forming a list of issues to be addressed by government.
148
Explain the concept of "enumerated powers" in Article I, Section 8.
Specific powers granted to Congress, such as regulating commerce and declaring war.
149
What is the significance of the Twenty-third Amendment in presidential elections?
It granted Washington, D.C., three electoral votes, allowing residents to participate in presidential elections.
150
Define "dual federalism."
A system where federal and state governments operate independently in their own areas of public policy.
